Passed my Economics exam and have completed paper number 3 of 4. One more paper to go, and I'll have completed another 8 competency units.
Then it's on to Marketing. I really don't care too much about Marketing, so I've always found the Marketing courses to be particularly difficult. I am discovering my strengths and weaknesses. A definite bonus that comes with all these student loans! :D
Monday, June 28, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
In Case of Emergency
I received an email from a friend of mine the other day that said, "Urgent Assistance Needed!!!" It went on to say she was on vacation out of the country and had been robbed. I picked up the phone, called her, and got her voicemail. I began to become concerned.
About 15 minutes later, I received a 'chat' in my google account from her, reiterating the email and that she needed help. I picked up the phone again, and this time asked for the receptionist at the company she works at. She was alive and well, and most definitely NOT out of the country and in dire need of financial assistance. Someone hacked her email. If it weren't for good anti-virus protection, etc., I'd have been in the same boat.
So, I'm going to steal my brother's idea let everybody know my thoughts on this. If I am ever in a situation where I have an urgent need of assistance, I will call everyone I know or see them in person. I will NOT EVER contact my friends,family or others over the internet or via email for 'urgent assistance'. If I need help, I will ask for it either over the phone or in person. There are just too many lunatics out there to do it any other way.
My brother is right, as usual. Which is why we call him "Obiwan".
About 15 minutes later, I received a 'chat' in my google account from her, reiterating the email and that she needed help. I picked up the phone again, and this time asked for the receptionist at the company she works at. She was alive and well, and most definitely NOT out of the country and in dire need of financial assistance. Someone hacked her email. If it weren't for good anti-virus protection, etc., I'd have been in the same boat.
So, I'm going to steal my brother's idea let everybody know my thoughts on this. If I am ever in a situation where I have an urgent need of assistance, I will call everyone I know or see them in person. I will NOT EVER contact my friends,family or others over the internet or via email for 'urgent assistance'. If I need help, I will ask for it either over the phone or in person. There are just too many lunatics out there to do it any other way.
My brother is right, as usual. Which is why we call him "Obiwan".
The Agony of Defeat
The Innovative Mechanical Tonawanda Stars suffered their first defeat today in a 6-5 loss to the Carubba Collision BSAC.
John started out pitching the game, but had to leave for another game in a different league. Patrick took over and did a great job, throwing more strikes than balls and keeping his composure like a pro. The score was tied 5-5 for two solid innings, a pitching change was made after one out in the bottom of the last inning, and the winning run scored. Ah, well. Sometimes those pitching changes don't work out so well.
The biggest problem the boys had today was with their base running. The tag-up-and-run-like-heck thing either wasn't going on or was going on at the wrong time. That's okay, though. That's how they learn.
The thunderstorms held off and no one got seriously injured, so I'd call it a good day. Macaroni and cheese for dinner tonight. After all, nothing says comfort like macaroni and cheese. :D
John started out pitching the game, but had to leave for another game in a different league. Patrick took over and did a great job, throwing more strikes than balls and keeping his composure like a pro. The score was tied 5-5 for two solid innings, a pitching change was made after one out in the bottom of the last inning, and the winning run scored. Ah, well. Sometimes those pitching changes don't work out so well.
The biggest problem the boys had today was with their base running. The tag-up-and-run-like-heck thing either wasn't going on or was going on at the wrong time. That's okay, though. That's how they learn.
The thunderstorms held off and no one got seriously injured, so I'd call it a good day. Macaroni and cheese for dinner tonight. After all, nothing says comfort like macaroni and cheese. :D
Physical Therapy
I had my first physical therapy session yesterday morning. Here's the story...
A tear in the rotator cuff cannot be diagnosed by x-ray. But in case of injury, the insurance company first requires an x-ray, then at least two weeks of physical therapy, before approval will be given for an MRI.
So I had the x-ray, which everybody (except, apparently, the insurance company) knows does not show anything, and now I'm off to PT.
After taking many measurements and seeing just what I can and cannot do, the doctor thinks the problem may be that I have injured the bursae in the Glenohumeral Joint (the shoulder joint). The bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that permit us to move our joints without friction and pain. Chances are, when I fell down the stairs, I pulled the arm out of the joint just a little too far in my attempt to stop myself, and then when I landed on the concrete, I jammed it back in forcefully, causing the injury.
This is just guesswork, because we can't see in there without an MRI. (Good thing the insurance company is there to tell my doctor what is in my best interests. I can't imagine what I would do with [gasp!] an accurate diagnosis.)
Right now, the doctor wants me to do a simple range-of-motion exercise (pendulum), immobilize it often, and ice it.
And I am diligently following his instructions. I do not have time for any alternatives.
A tear in the rotator cuff cannot be diagnosed by x-ray. But in case of injury, the insurance company first requires an x-ray, then at least two weeks of physical therapy, before approval will be given for an MRI.
So I had the x-ray, which everybody (except, apparently, the insurance company) knows does not show anything, and now I'm off to PT.
After taking many measurements and seeing just what I can and cannot do, the doctor thinks the problem may be that I have injured the bursae in the Glenohumeral Joint (the shoulder joint). The bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that permit us to move our joints without friction and pain. Chances are, when I fell down the stairs, I pulled the arm out of the joint just a little too far in my attempt to stop myself, and then when I landed on the concrete, I jammed it back in forcefully, causing the injury.
This is just guesswork, because we can't see in there without an MRI. (Good thing the insurance company is there to tell my doctor what is in my best interests. I can't imagine what I would do with [gasp!]
Right now, the doctor wants me to do a simple range-of-motion exercise (pendulum), immobilize it often, and ice it.
And I am diligently following his instructions. I do not have time for any alternatives.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Toy Story 3 in 3D
LOVED IT! Of course, I'm completely a Toy Story fan. I've always found animated films amazing. This movie answers the all- important question:
As a side note, I will not be returning to the AMC theater anytime soon. They were the most uncomfortable chairs I've ever sat in. Regal has much better seating. I'm not sure exactly what the difference is, except that at AMC I felt like I was tilted back too far, and I couldn't rest my head. I guess I need to be either shorter or taller. :D
What happens to Woody and Buzz and the rest of the gang when Andy grows up?
As a side note, I will not be returning to the AMC theater anytime soon. They were the most uncomfortable chairs I've ever sat in. Regal has much better seating. I'm not sure exactly what the difference is, except that at AMC I felt like I was tilted back too far, and I couldn't rest my head. I guess I need to be either shorter or taller. :D
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Hockey in June
Ian was playing with his buddy, Anthony, who lives and breathes hockey. Ian wants to learn more about hockey, but doesn't want anything to do with skating. I'll have to give him the advice I heard from another buddy's dad: When you're skating around with all that stuff on and you fall, you don't feel a thing! Maybe he'll try skating again someday.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Buffalo Traditional School Reunion
Went to my 29th year High School reunion last night and had a blast! Jackie flew in from North Carolina for it, and talking with her was just wonderful. Only four of us showed from the Class of '81 (Jackie, Fonda, Felicia and I) for the dinner, and we caught up. I am wondering what will be planned for our 30th next year.
30 years.
Wow.
Didn't think I'd live this long. :D
30 years.
Wow.
Didn't think I'd live this long. :D
Me, Ma and Jackie.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Dexterity and Poise...
I fell the other night. Must be because I'm so graceful and coordinated. (NOT!) I took a swan dive down a friend's porch steps and landed on concrete. (No, I was not drinking.) I completely missed the first step. I'm not even sure how! What's worse is, when I was laying on the ground, curled into the fetal position at the bottom of her steps, I couldn't figure out why I couldn't get up.
Turns out the heel of my right shoe got caught in the hem of my left pant leg.
I've got a bruise on my (ahem) ... posterior region ... that is about 4" in diameter, and I took the skin off my right knee and shin. That's not the best part of it, though.
The best part is I can no longer move my right arm over my head. Or straight out to the side. Or behind my back.
Good thing I can use both my hands just about equally. Something tells me this little accident is going to be expensive.
Turns out the heel of my right shoe got caught in the hem of my left pant leg.
I've got a bruise on my (ahem) ... posterior region ... that is about 4" in diameter, and I took the skin off my right knee and shin. That's not the best part of it, though.
The best part is I can no longer move my right arm over my head. Or straight out to the side. Or behind my back.
Good thing I can use both my hands just about equally. Something tells me this little accident is going to be expensive.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Moving Right Along...
Passed Fundamentals of Economics, Global Business and Quantitative Analysis. Next, I have four papers to write for Economics and Global Business Applications.
Sunday, June 06, 2010
I Don't Understand Boys.
He doesn't want to shower. (But Mom! I haven't been sweaty or anything and I didn't even play in the mud!)
And sometimes when he does shower, he 'forgets' to use shampoo. (Get back in that shower, Mister!)
Yet, his baseballs got muddy when he was playing outside today, and he brought them all in and washed them in the bathroom sink.
With soap.
And sometimes when he does shower, he 'forgets' to use shampoo. (Get back in that shower, Mister!)
Yet, his baseballs got muddy when he was playing outside today, and he brought them all in and washed them in the bathroom sink.
With soap.
The Strike Zone
He attached my laundry basket to the chain link fence with masking tape, making sure it was placed so the strike zone would be letters to knees, and he pointed out to my neighbor that the laundry basket was just about perfect, because it was the width of the plate. Impeccable logic.
I think he is supposed to be about 46' away from it. Well, truth be told, I'm not sure how I can measure 46'. I keep losing track with my 12" ruler. Anyway...
Right now, he just wants to practice hitting the strike zone. I'll encourage him to move away a little bit at a time. And I'll have to get me a new laundry basket. :)
Saturday, June 05, 2010
Game Two
Ian missed his first game because of his concert, and almost missed this one due to illness. I kept him home from school yesterday with a fever. He felt better this morning, so I let him play.
The Innovative Mechanical Tonawanda Stars won. John pitched a no-hitter!
Practice Swings
The Innovative Mechanical Tonawanda Stars won. John pitched a no-hitter!
Practice Swings
There he is, hauling a** for first. :)
It bloomed!
Pale pink roses traditionally mean grace, gentleness, and gratitude, a very appropriate gift choice. I can't remember if I ever relayed the story here of how I came to own this rose bush...
I was home sick from work one summer afternoon when someone knocked on my door.
An older woman stood at my door asking to use my phone. Her car died about two doors down and she needed to call AAA. I apologized and told her I would not let her in, but I handed her my cordless through the chain on the door for her to use to make her call.
The next day, I found this rose bush and a thank you note left on the porch by my mailbox. A beautiful, unexpected gift.
I was home sick from work one summer afternoon when someone knocked on my door.
An older woman stood at my door asking to use my phone. Her car died about two doors down and she needed to call AAA. I apologized and told her I would not let her in, but I handed her my cordless through the chain on the door for her to use to make her call.
The next day, I found this rose bush and a thank you note left on the porch by my mailbox. A beautiful, unexpected gift.
Friday, June 04, 2010
Chocolate Chili
This stuff is GREAT! I never would have thought of mixing chocolate with beef, but isn't that what mole is, in a way? Here is the recipe, which I found in Favorite Brand Name Recipes Best of the Best One Dish cookbook. Trust me on this one...
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until hot. Add 1 diced onion and 1 teaspoon chopped garlic. Cook and stir just until the onions are tender, about 3 minutes.
Add 2 pounds lean ground beef, 1 (4-oz) can of diced green chiles, and 1 packet of taco seasoning mix. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until the meat is browned.
Stir in 1 (28-oz) can of diced tomatoes, 1 (16-oz) jar of thick and chunky salsa, 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of slivered almonds, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to low.
Simmer for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Add 1 (15-oz) can pinto beans (drained) and heat 15 minutes longer or until the beans are heated through.
Makes 8 servings. Garnish with crumbled taco shells, shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro and diced tomatoes. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and from start to finish, this takes 1 1/2 hours. And it is SO worth it.
Chocolate Chili
Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until hot. Add 1 diced onion and 1 teaspoon chopped garlic. Cook and stir just until the onions are tender, about 3 minutes.
Add 2 pounds lean ground beef, 1 (4-oz) can of diced green chiles, and 1 packet of taco seasoning mix. Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until the meat is browned.
Stir in 1 (28-oz) can of diced tomatoes, 1 (16-oz) jar of thick and chunky salsa, 2 cups of water, 1/2 cup of semisweet chocolate chips, 1/2 cup of slivered almonds, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to low.
Simmer for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes. Add 1 (15-oz) can pinto beans (drained) and heat 15 minutes longer or until the beans are heated through.
Makes 8 servings. Garnish with crumbled taco shells, shredded cheddar cheese, cilantro and diced tomatoes. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and from start to finish, this takes 1 1/2 hours. And it is SO worth it.
Wednesday, June 02, 2010
Spring Concert
Someday I'll figure out how to take a decent picture in a school auditorium. In the middle picture, Ian is front and center playing the cello. (I didn't really recognize any of the songs, but don't tell him.) :D In the third photo, he is standing on stage, singing "I Don't Want to Grow Up" from Peter Pan.
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